Washingtonians would be able to spread their car tab bills over several payments, under legislation introduced by Sen. T’wina Nobles (D-Fircrest).
Nobles’ bill, SB 5448, would create an optional payment plan to allow eligible vehicle owners to make quarterly payments.
“We need to provide more payment options for consumers,” Nobles said. “This is a reasonable, practical pathway that balances my constituents’ needs and budgets. My constituents have been incredibly vocal about this issue and I’m trying to find solutions for them,” Nobles said.
Currently, some vehicle owners with steep tab fees must choose between paying the single large fee at the expense of other essential bills, or not renewing their vehicle registration at all and being unable to use their vehicles.
“This legislation addresses an urgent and immediate need,” Nobles said. “The financial challenges to everyday households have only been made worse by the pandemic, and they need the financial flexibility to pay their bills over a reasonable period.”